Sailing Performance & Handling
The Picnic Cat is characterized by its remarkable stability and "big boat" feel, a direct result of its high beam-to-length ratio. With a displacement of approximately 500 lbs and a shallow draft of only 6 inches with the board up, it is optimized for "gunkholing"—the practice of sailing into the narrowest, shallowest reaches of a coastline. According to the Com-Pac Yachts official specifications, the vessel utilizes a weighted centerboard that, when lowered to its 2'6" depth, provides sufficient tracking and lift for upwind work.
Under sail, the single 109-square-foot gaff-rigged sail provides significant low-end torque, allowing the boat to move effectively in light airs. Handling is straightforward, though like most catboats, it can develop a degree of weather helm as the wind freshens. This is often mitigated by reefing the gaff sail early or adjusting the centerboard height. The absence of a jib simplifies single-handed operation, as there are no sheets to winch or tracks to clear during a tack. Owners often report that the boat "pivots on a dime," making it ideal for navigating crowded moorings or narrow channels where larger sloops might struggle.
The Picnic Cat shares its hull DNA with its sibling, the Com-Pac Sunday Cat. While the Picnic Cat is an entirely open boat optimized for cockpit space, the Sunday Cat utilizes the same 14-foot hull but adds a small cuddy cabin for overnighting or dry storage. For sailors seeking more waterline length and a traditional cabin, the Sun Cat (17 feet) and the Horizon Cat (20 feet) represent the larger evolutionary steps in the Com-Pac catboat family.
Popular Mentions & Media
The Picnic Cat has earned a dedicated following among "small boat" enthusiasts and has been featured in various maritime publications focusing on trailerable cruisers. It is frequently highlighted in Small Boats Magazine for its accessibility and "quick-set" rigging. The model’s cultural footprint is largely defined by the "minimalist sailing" movement, where it is often cited as a premier choice for retirees or young families who wish to avoid the overhead of a slip-bound yacht. Its presence in YouTube sailing vlogs often showcases its ability to be launched from primitive ramps and sailed in waters as shallow as a foot, reinforcing its reputation as a go-anywhere daysailer.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
While Com-Pac is known for robust construction, there are several technical areas that prospective buyers should evaluate:
- Mast Hinge and Pin: The "Mast-End" hinge is the heart of the boat’s utility. Inspect the hinge plates for hairline fractures or bending, and ensure the locking pin is not wallowing out the hole. If the mast was frequently stepped without proper alignment, the hinge may show signs of premature wear.
- Centerboard Trunk and Cable: Because the Picnic Cat is often sailed in sandy or muddy shallows, the centerboard trunk can collect debris. Check the lifting cable for fraying and ensure the board drops and retracts smoothly without clunking, which could indicate a worn pivot bolt.
- Teak and Wood Trim: Unlike some modern daysailers that are entirely plastic, the Picnic Cat features exterior teak trim. If neglected, this wood can grey and crack. While purely aesthetic, a weathered coaming can lead to water ingress behind the fiberglass liners if the sealant has failed.
- Cockpit Scuppers: Ensure the cockpit drains are clear. On older models, the drainage system can become slow if obstructed by leaves or debris, which is critical for an open boat that may be left on a mooring or trailer during a rainstorm.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for technical support and owner camaraderie is the Com-Pac Yachts Owners Association (CPYOA). This organization maintains an extensive technical wiki and forum where owners share modifications, such as custom boom crutches or reefing setups. Because the Hutchins Company is still in operation in Clearwater, Florida, owners also benefit from direct access to factory parts and historical technical advice, a rarity in an industry where many builders of this size have shuttered.
The Verdict
The Com-Pac Picnic Cat is a specialized tool for the sailor who values time on the water over complex systems or high-speed racing. It excels as a stable, handsome, and remarkably easy-to-manage platform for day-tripping.
Pros:
- Extremely Rapid Setup: The stayless gaff rig allows for launching and sailing in under 10 minutes.
- Exceptional Stability: The 7-foot beam makes the boat feel secure, even with multiple adults on one side.
- Shallow Water Access: A 6-inch "board-up" draft allows for beaching and exploring areas off-limits to most keelboats.
- Strong Resale Value: Com-Pac boats maintain their value well due to their niche appeal and build quality.
Cons:
- Limited Upwind Performance: Like most gaff-rigged catboats, it will not point as high as a modern sloop.
- No Interior Shelter: As an open boat, there is no protection from sudden rain or sun without an aftermarket bimini.
- Weather Helm: Can become heavy on the tiller in gusty conditions if the sail is not properly trimmed or reefed.
